Manie Libbok has officially bid farewell to the Stormers and “hello” to his new club and home in Japan.
The Springbok flyhalf has signed with the Hanazono Kintetsu Liners ahead of the 2025/26 Japan Rugby League One season.
MANIE LIBBOK SAYS GOODBYE TO STORMERS, DIE-HARD ‘FIATHFUL’ FANS
In an emotional Instagram post, Manie Libbok officially announced his departure from his Western Cape club, which he joined in 2021.
He shared: “Thank you, Stormers family, and of course, to the incredible Faithful”.
Libbok went on to thank the club’s staff, as well as his colleagues.
“Thank you for the trust you placed in me and for believing. That belief inspired me to be the best version of myself.
“To my teammates, thank you for the memories, the battles we fought together, and the brotherhood we built.
To the fans, known as the “Faithful”, he added: “Your continuous support, through highs and lows, has meant more than words can describe. Running out in front of you was always an honour”.
In June, Stormers boss John Dobson revealed Manie Libbok had cut short his contract to play abroad.
Holding no grudges, he said in a press conference, “We’ve had a fantastic journey with him. He’s a massive loss. Manie got an eye-watering offer from Japan, and it’s a life-changing amount of money. It’ll change his whole family’s life.
He added: “Manie goes with blessing… and an open invitation to come back.”
WHERE TO NEXT?
Meanwhile, Manie Libbok has sent greetings to his new club of Hanazono Kintetsu Liners in Japan.
In a video posted on the club’s official Instagram account, he said, “It’s awesome to be in Japan. I’m looking forward to the journey here.”
He added: “I feel good!”
